MAGA Commentator Criticized for Suggesting Veggie Burgers Amid Rising Beef Prices
Bill Mitchell's suggestion on X draws backlash, with critics noting the Republican Party's recent use of veganism as a political smear.
MAGA commentator Bill Mitchell faced online criticism Thursday after suggesting that Americans consider eating veggie burgers as ground beef prices increase.
“With regards to beef prices, have you ever tried a veggie burger?” Mitchell posted on X. “They’re actually really good. A little lettuce, tomato, pickles, a portobello mushroom, slice of Swiss cheese. Excellent.”
The suggestion comes as beef prices have been rising under President Donald Trump, and his supporters have previously pushed back against proposals to import more beef from foreign countries to mitigate costs.
Simultaneously, Republicans have recently employed veganism as a political tactic to criticize Democratic candidates. In Texas, Senate candidate James Talarico, who is not vegan, has been labeled “Tofu Talarico” by Republicans. President Trump himself made a remark about Talarico, stating, “He eats meat, and he goes outside, and he throws up all over the place.”
In Colorado, Democratic congressional candidate Manny Rutinel, a former vegan, has been targeted with right-wing attacks, including the nickname “Meatless Manny Rutinel.”
In response to the backlash, Mitchell defended his suggestion in a subsequent post, stating, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but I think they’re great when prepared well.”